Zheng Performance Lesson 古筝课程
Instructor: Jean Y. Sze 施逸清老师
Ph: (732) 329-3245 Email: jeansze@comcast.net
Chinese music is part of Chinese culture. Chinese is now well known in The United States. Zheng, is a Chinese plucked string instrument, also known as horizontal harp, or Chinese zither. The instrument has a history going back over 2000 years. It has bright and beautiful sound. Learning zheng performance will help the students to understand Chinese culture better. This music instrument is widely spread over Asia countries. In different parts of Asia such as Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, it is called Koto, Kayagum, and the Dan Tranh respectively.
In ancient times, zheng had 13 strings that were made of silk, and the performance technique was quite simple---the right hand played the music and the left hand pushed and kneaded the strings. It was only used to play simple melodies. There are different playing styles include the Zhe Jiang style, Shan Dong style, He Nan style, Chao Zhou style etc. and they are all very unique in their own aspects. Today, the modern zheng has 21 strings and is played with both hands. The strings are made of steel and nylon. Players usually use picks on one or both of their hands. The performance technique is greatly developed. It is not only possible to play melodies, but also harmony and counterpoint. Today, this instrument can render traditional compositions as well as modern compositions using new technique and expressive devices. Many new compositions have emerged, and this beautiful instrument is also used in many experimental music pieces.
In this course, student will learn traditional zheng pieces as well as modern music in different period and area, from simple to difficult pieces, music knowledge, and performance techniques.
